January 25th, 2012
“Once loved treasures can be true joy to someone else.” Consignment shops sell second-hand items. Sometimes the profit is split 50/50 between the owner and the person that brought the merchandise in; others might have a different arrangement. One thing for sure is that consignment shops will only accept items that look like new.
There are many reasons to go to a consignment shop. If you are taking your own merchandise in, then you might be turning a cluttered house into cash. These shops are a business, not thrift shops; they do want to make a profit. The idea is to sell at the highest possible price with the customer still getting a good deal.
 
These shops are popular. Everyone wins and everybody likes a bargain.
 
Seaquels is a furniture consignment shop located at 4 Town Rd. (between the 2 World Gym buildings) in the town of Ocean View, Delaware. Ocean View is west of Bethany Beach, about 2 miles. This is their new address. They just moved last week. If you have visited the shop before, go in that same entrance but go towards the back of the buildings. There is plenty of parking.
 
Seaquels is owned by Cindy and Kathy. Tel. 302-829-8636. E-mail is seaquels@gmail.com. You can find Seaquels on Facebook like everyone else.
 
The first thing you will see is that Cindy and Kathy are so friendly. I feel like I have known them forever. Very easy to talk to and just as helpful.
Seaquels has great merchandise and it turns over quickly. The pictures of the merchandise you will see on this blog, might not be there next week. You can also ask Cindy and Kathy to be on the look-out for a specific piece. One thing for sure is that they do have very affordable prices.
This new building has great lighting and they can spread out. They just moved here so they are still placing furniture, art, plants, wall decor and basically, getting used to this much space.
So check out the store!! Seaquels opens, at this time of the year, from 10 to 4 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Monday. On Sundays it opens from 11 to 2 p.m.
Beautiful day in the Delmarva Peninsula!! Enjoy and talk to you later…
January 15th, 2012
It used to be that there was Black Tie, Semi-Formal, and Casual. Times have changed and the new designations on how you should be dressed for a particular ocassion are: White Tie, Black Tie, Creative Black Tie, Black Tie Optional, Semi-formal, Festive Attire, Business Formal, Business Casual, Dressy Casual, and, finally, Casual… This last designation is pretty much khakies or good jeans, cargo or Bermuda shorts, plain t-shirt (no slogans, please), polo shirt or turtleneck, casual button-down shirt, sweater, loafers, sneakers (with or without socks), or sandals.
That’s our way of living, here, at the Delaware Beaches. That’s why this coast is so popular; we live a casual atmosphere and it reflects in the way we also dress.
With that in mind I have to tell you that back in 2009, I was out and about in Lewes. It was just a few months since I had started AboutMyBeaches. Looking for material, checking the restaurants and shops. I had not yet started including pictures on my blog.
I stopped at a brand new shop called Shorebreak, at 115 Savannah Rd., Lewes. It was right in downtown historic Lewes, where Second St. meets Savannah Rd. Tel. 302-645-8488. Josh Barr was and is the owner of this men’s wear shop. He is a local guy, went to school with one of my sons, and it was great to see him open this shop. He was looking forward to this new adventure.
Last week I decided to stop by and check Shorebreak out. It was wonderful to see the shop again, with beautiful merchandise. Most of all, it was great to see how Josh has really become a shopkeeper. He was so confident, knew his brands well; so friendly and easy to talk to.
The Delaware Beaches only have a few men’s shops that are owned, individually, by locals. Josh told me he carries everything from Southern Tide, Cutter & Buck, Original Penguin, Life is Good, sweaters and pullovers, flannels, sunglasses, swim shorts, shorts, hats, sandals, and casual footwear.
 
Here is what his shop looks like:
Belts, hats, ties, shorts, and sunglasses. Shorebreak is open every week-end at this time of the year, but you might also find him there, unexpectedly, during the week. You can give him a call in case you need something asap. There are also good sales taking place at this time, as well.
Sandals and casual footwear.
The bottle openers are always popular.
As I was walking through the store a small sign caught my attention. Another local guy, Corey Schab, has local t-shirts, L-Town, also reflecting the small, coastal town living of Lewes, Delaware. Shorebreak is carrying the t-shirts; high quality material and good looking, as well.
Small town shopping…Historic Lewes…residents, shopkeepers…priceless!!
December 23rd, 2011
Out and about in the historic town of Lewes with my friend Jody. Just a few hours to catch up before Christmas and New Year’s keep everyone wrapping, cooking and entertaining.
Living in a small coastal town is, to me, perfect at this time of the year. I don’t have to be looking for my car lost in a big parking lot in a mall. Local shops have everything my family and friends would want.
Lewes is beautiful any time of the year. Christmas has an appeal on this historic town. It is the first town of the first state. It has great restaurants, friendly residents, and wonderful shops.
For example, take the house where the Lewes Historical Society Museum Shop is located. Right on the corner of Second and Mulberry Streets. Ryves Holt was probably born in 1696 and died in 1763. He lived in that house. He was the Chief Justice of Three Lower Counties on Delaware from 1745 until 1763. He was a Member of the Assembly and Speaker of the Assembly, as well.
The building is so beautiful in its simplicity. Definitely, a post for the future.
The Lewes Historical Society has tours year round. For more information, please visit www.historiclewes.org.
Continuing our strolling we ended up at The Cottage, which is located at 142 Second St., Tel. 302-644-1544. Its owner is Sally Lawton. The store has wonderful gifts. It was described as “a vintage gift boutique”. Another description would be “where past and present meet”.
I picked up a few last minute gifts. I loved the wine stopper. Bought it for nobody in particular. Thought it would be fun to attach it to a nice bottle of wine. The candle smelled so good, I got it for a friend. Then, a customer was raving about the Fleurs Du Jour Rice Body Powder. She said she buys it for herself and friends. It smelled delicious; talc free, soothing and moisturizing. Of course, I got it. I think I will put it under the tree. It said that it would revitalize my skin and lift my spirits, as well.
The Cottage will be closing at the end of the day today, Friday the 23rd. They will be reopening in February. At that time the store would have expanded to the next space, and a post will be more in depth then. Please note: Sales are on-going today.
If you have little ones that might want to say hello to Santa. Well, today is also the last day to do so in Lewes. Right on Second Street, Santa’s House can be found. He will be there from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m.
Walking through Main Street Jody and I met Lizzy, who was walking and shopping with her Springer Spaniel. Lizzy has a business and I am passing you the info. She is a licensed and insured property manager. Her business is Leave it All to Lizzy. She is a one person “does it all”. Home and office organization, event planning, house cleaning, rental preparation, linen service, grocery shopping, personal shopping vacation home opening/closing, holiday decorating, reservations and 48 hour move-ins. For more info. please e-mail leaveitalltolizzy@gmail.com or call 302-841-0917.
Chatting away…then we noticed the mini BMW with the tiniest of Christmas tree on top….so cute I had to take the picture.
We did have a late lunch….the post in a few hours…..
Merry Christmas!!
December 14th, 2011
I asked Janice; how would you described your store? It’s a woman’s store, definitely. Someone once came in and said; “estrogen infused”. We laughed. Is it? Well, you might have to find for yourselves.
Bella Luna is at 127 Rehoboth Avenue right in Downtown Rehoboth Beach. Tel. 302-227-0267. Website? www.bellalunatic.com. E-mail address? bellalunatic@gmail.com. Janice Elder is the shop owner.
Home, Body, Soul. Those words are on their storefront awning. They truly tell the customer what you will find inside. As you come into the Bella Luna soft music is usually playing. One look at the store and you will see that it is full to capacity.
I like the word whimsical. It is a fun store. Women, girls; they all love it. Guys come in to buy for their significant others.
A tiny corner just for something for young ones.
For the home you will find, art, fun plaques, Christmas Decorations, tea towels, great napkins and unique cards.
For the body, plenty of beautiful scarves, including Pashminas; textures and colors for all tastes. Gloves, hats, lotions, potions and scents.
Lots of necklaces and earrings. These earrings were from Turkey, in vermeil.
As we were talking a guy came in. He was in a slight rush. A present for someone special. He picked it out immediately; I think she might have sent him there. Ideas on how to wrap it were given. Off he went.
The Wine Wraps caught my attention. Turning a bottle of wine into a creative holiday present. Made by a company called Santa Barbara Design Studio. Names like Reindeer Reserve, and Vixen’s Vino to name a few.
Bella Luna makes one feel good. That must be the soul part of it. Janice is always very friendly. And, by the way, the young lady that was also working there is a great addition to the shop; very helpful in her suggestions.
At this time of the year when we are looking for something special for that best friend, hostess gift, or your own personal indulgence….it was the perfect place!!!
Have a good one!!…I will talk to you later….
December 9th, 2011
Purpose: “To advance the public interest in the visual arts and to promote the development of excellence in visual arts in the South Palm Beach area.” delray art league
There is definitely a schedule, but when I see the banner I know that the Artists are in the Park. And, this is one of those week-ends. Right on Veterans Park, by the Intracoastal you will see the white tents.
It is going to be a crowded Saturday in Delray so get there early and stay awhile.
Artists in the Park have been in the community for over 46 years. Susan sent me an e-mail and told me that their Larry Marini Art Education Fund has donated back to the community so that students may have the opportunity to experience the arts through scholarships and supplies. Artists in the Park have donated to Old School Square, Milagro Center, Atlantic High School, Sister Cities, FAU, Delray Beach Library, Plumosa School of the Arts and so many others.
It is South Florida’s longest running outdoor fine art show and sale. You will find a variety of mediums; watercolors, oils, acrylics, photography, and sculpture.
It is free and it starts at 10:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday.
If you want to learn more about the Delray Art League, please visit www.delrayartleague.com.
Have a great week-end. Talk to you later….
December 3rd, 2011
Even though I just posted a few days ago how I am not fond of big malls….well, guess what? There I was on Wednesday going to the Christiana Mall near Wilmington, Delaware. Going to the Apple store I was, accompanied by my 2 sons.
The moment I saw the Apple store, there was no way I was going in. There were, practically, 400 people there. I decided they could stay and I would be doing my own thing. We were not staying too long.
As I entered Nordstrom I saw the big sign for Jo Malone. I really love this company. I have only bought their fragrances; they do have other products. This company is from London, England and the website is www.jomalone.com.
I wear cologne every single day. I love it. I think that scents can define who you are; fun, serious, or adventurous. Haven’t you been somewhere and they say “you smell good”. No inuendo whatsoever, just the fact that it was an attractive scent. Even though women are known to be the ones using more fragrances, men do have their favorites too. At times when a company makes fragrances for men and women, I buy the men’s because they are usually lighter.
I have also been in an elevator when someone has been a little heavy handed with their fragrance. Not good.
The great thing about Jo Malone fragrances is that you can combine one or two and make your own statement. I wear fresh scents; you know… citrus, light, and fresh.
I love the ones I got; French Lime Blossom and Lime Basil & Mandarin. Both of them can be used by themselves or combined.
They are pricey, but pretty much all fragrances are. Tax free shopping in Delaware helps, though. Jo Malone products do last a long time. It is a matter of an individual preference. Next time you see them, try them and let me know how you like them. They usually give plenty of samples, as well.
Right across the Apple store was Sephora. Oh, what the heck…I went in. Up and down the isles I was checking a lipstick here, mascara there…I was wondering if there was something new. One of the ladies came and I asked her what was her favorite makeup; they had so many. She said Hourglass. She also said their makeup consultant was there.
That’s how I came to know Sibel. I decided to try it. Sibel said it would not take long; it did not. Hourglass has been in existence since 2004 and the makeup is known for its innovative technology. It was started by a woman, Carisa Jones. The makeup has sun filtering ingredients; defying gravity. Interesting…
First she cleaned my face and put a primer, explaining how the primer lets your makeup really glide…and then the word gluten free. What? Yes, some of their products are gluten free; Calligraphy Liquid Liner, Film Noir Mascara, Illusion Tinted Moisturizer, Script Liquid Liner, Superficial Waterproof Bronzer, Trace Lip Liner, Veil Mineral Primer, Visionaire Eye Shadow Duo, and Vol. 6 Eye Palette.
On an on we kept talking and she then put the Veil Fluid Foundation; just a tiny bit with a brush that was made of Takelon bristles. Takelon bristles are high grade synthetic fibers, perfect for customers with allergic reactions to animal fur. PETA friendly too.
Hourglass has an ingredient matrix. All their products have not been tested on animals, are mercury free, and phthalate free. The majority are sulfate free, synthetic dye free, synthetic fragrance free, talc free and paraben free. Parabens are the most widely used preservatives in cosmetics. Others are vegan, and oil free. To check the ingredients just visit http://www.hourglasscosmetics.com and click on the individual products. A description of the ingredients will be available.
Once she was finished I thought I looked pretty good. The makeup was luminous; light, just enhancing my look. Sibel took my picture, but I don’t dare to put it here.
The cream to powder duo was great. The lip gloss felt good on my lips and the eyeliner looked nice.
Kids are kids, especially your own….I don’t think they even noticed. What did they think I was doing sitting on that chair?
Try the makeup; how far we have come….
Have a good one…talk to you later….
November 29th, 2011
I have never been one to shop in big malls. I know, I know, the majority of people do. I don’t even go when there is not a holiday around the corner. So, why would I go when at the holiday season all I will get is full parking lots, long lines at the cash register, attendants are busy and a little short?
I like those small shops that you find in every single town, or city. In these shops you get the personal attention you need. My favorites are the local shops in the Delmarva Peninsula; the towns of Lewes, Rehoboth, Dewey Beach, Bethany Beach, Ocean View, Ocean City, and Berlin among them.
So, no hustle and bustle; peace and serenity is what I want. One such shop is TaDa in the Historic town of Berlin, Maryland. I have written about it before and I just wrote a post on its sister store, TaDa Home. These are the shops that are worth visiting over and over again. New merchandise gets updated all the time.
TaDa is located at 18 N Main St., Berlin, MD 21811. Tel. 410-641-4430. Website? http://www.blairelizabeth.com. At any given time you will find Blair, Patty, Christine and even Brooke. They are responsible for everything on the store to look just right.
Being that the Holidays are upon us I wanted to show you some of the items that make TaDa a must stop shop in Berlin.
TaDa has a Children’s Corner with lots of cute presents for babies. The store has tote bags, scarves, shoes, bags, personalized items and even fun presents for the bride to be.
New colors had just come in – the flats
   
TaDa carries jewelry but the one that attracted by attention is the one designed and handmade by Blair Elizabeth. The stones and color combinations are, definitely, fun, casual with an understated elegance.
      
TaDa and TaDa Home are part of the merchants that make the town of Historic Berlin special during the Christmas Season. Please check out the following events when both shops will be involved.
December 1 through the 24th – Join them for refreshments, gourmet tastings, and free gift wrapping. The stores will open Mondays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and on Sundays from 11:30 a.m. until 3 p.m.
Fridays in December – Sip and shop with TaDa at Burley Oak Brewery. Stop by TaDa any time to fill out your wish list and send your Santa to Burley Oak located in a building originally built at the turn of the century at 10016 Old Ocean City Blvd. 5 – 7 p.m. shop and enjoy some delicious local brews.
Food Drive, December 3rd – Benefitting the Maryland Food Bank. For every non-perishable food item donated, receive a coupon for $1 off your $5 purchase. No limit on coupons – coupons must be redeemed that day.
Have a great day!! Talk to you later…
November 26th, 2011
 Rehoboth Beach
“A man who works with his hands is a laborer; a man who work with his hand and his mind is a craftsman; but a man who works with his hands and his brain and his heart is an artist.” st. thomas aquina
The Delmarva Peninsula surprised us with a gorgeous Black Friday. Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. I love to spend it in Delaware, my home. Black Friday brought lots of shoppers to the tax free shopping we offer in the State.
Rehoboth was very crowded. The weather? 68 degrees!! No parking to be found. My car was heading south on Rt. 1 to the town of Bethany Beach and then heading west for a few miles to start my own little tour of the 17th Annual Southeastern Artists Studio Tour.
Following are the 3 artists that I visited on Friday; all very different and all pursuing their passion.
Keith Toms is a Builder Blacksmith, originally from England, he makes Sussex County his home. He is located at 35160 Roxana Rd., Frankford, DE. Tel. 302-519-3731 E-mail? keithtoms@verizon.net.
Even though the address says Frankford, I really call that area Roxana. To get to it from Rt. 26 in Millville, take Rt. 17 to Roxana, go through the traffic light which is the junction of Rt. 17 and Rt. 20 and you will find his studio about 100 yards on the right. It is a garage next to a white house.
“The ability to directly shape metal has held my fascination since 1993, using the energy and rhythm of hammer and anvil, hot metal is transformed into subtle forms and curves that are inspired by both nature and industry. The techniques I use are much the same as they were hundreds of years ago, with a few modern twists that allow more contemporary design.”
 
Sunflowers are a specialty of his. You can see it in a lot of his work. He really can build anything. You can go through his portfolio and see some of his work.
 
I was looking at a piece to hang pots. It was huge. You would need a large kitchen. Keith told me that some of the bigger pieces do not take as long as the smaller ones. The smaller ones can take up to 50 hours for just one piece.
 
Keith is at his studio practically every afternoon. You can call him or e-mail him at keithtoms@verizon.net.
To be able to transform metal into such art was beautiful to see.
The next artist on my list was Tom Frey. He is a woodturner located at 30424 Marina Rd., Dagsboro, DE 19939. Tel. 302-732-6172. E-mail? tefpwf62@gmail.com. His studio hours are by appointment.
It is a little tricky to get there but just follow these directions and you will find it. Go west on Rt. 26. This becomes Rt. 26/20 in Dagsboro. Turn right at the stoplight to go into Dagsboro. Go through the stoplight in the center of the town (now Rt. 20) and turn right onto Piney Neck Rd. Go approx. 3 miles, take a right on Marina Rd. and his house is 3rd on the right. Got it?
“Tom has pursued a specialty of thin-walled, natural edge turnings using mostly local woods that are stressed by nature. A soft matte finish has become a second hallmark of Tom’s work. In 2009, Tom achieved Master designation in the Delaware By Hand organization.”
We were received with big smiles from Tom and Pat, his wife. She had hot cider, cheese balls, made by her and crackers. Delicious. I was hoping my kids would not eat the whole thing.
I am in awe of his work. It is so delicate using the most unique pieces of wood. He told me he has plenty of wood to work with. He does get mesquite from a friend and supplier in Texas. Mesquite is now being used for hardwood flooring.
His minis were so cute and he told me they were so easy to make. So, here he is at work.
His works of art are, definitely, conversation pieces. They are perfect for the person that has it all. Here are some more pictures.
     
Thanks Pat and Tom. You were so gracious receiving us all into your home.
The next artist is a self made painter; Damon Pla. If you were in Rehoboth Beach for the Independent Film Festival you probably saw his work. Every year artists submit their work, hoping to be chosen for what best describes the theme of the Festival. He won!!
I stopped by his Damon Pla Fine Arts Studio located at 119 South Newport Way, Dagsboro, DE 19939. From Rt. 1 go west on Rt. 26, turn right onto White’s Neck Rd. (Millville Pet Shop on corner). Travel 1.6 miles. Turn slight right into Bethany Forest. Take 1st left onto South Newport Way. House is at the end of the street facing you.
“Through ambience, composition, movement and light, creating art will always be an instrument for me to interpret my perception of our surroundings. To quietly converse with the viewer through my work, provoking thought and meditation, is my passion.”
His studio was comfortably crowded, people asking him questions. I met his Mom, who was visiting from Ft. Lauderdale. Damon is originally from Florida; home is here now. His wife was there to help out, as well.
His paintings were amazing capturing the essence of his subjects. You can contact Damon by calling him at 302-541-6057 (studio), 302-841-3790 (cell), or visit his website, www.DamonPla.com. Just like everyone else, he is on Facebook; facebook.com/damonpla.
He offers original paintings, limited editions, commissions, trompe l’oeil/murals.
It was great meeting you and your family, Damon.
Some were hungry, so, to finish a really nice day off to Nicola Pizza on Rehoboth Avenue we went. I told you at the beginning that Rehoboth Beach was so crowded; like any summer day. Finally, we found parking.
As usual, Nicola Pizza, hit the spot.
A walk through the Boardwalk and looking out to sea in such a clear and warm day, we were able to see Cape May, New Jersey.
Note: Some of the Artists will be open on Sunday November 27th from 12 p.m. until 4 p.m. Please check www.artstudiotour.com.
Have a great day!! Talk to you later…
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